What is a characteristic of network flow (NetFlow)?

Network flow, often associated with NetFlow, is a network protocol developed by Cisco for collecting and monitoring network traffic data. The characteristic that is most significant is its ability to capture details about the characteristics of packets as they flow between devices on a network. This includes data such as source and destination IP addresses, ports, protocol types, and the volume of traffic. This information is invaluable for network administrators as it helps in understanding traffic patterns, diagnosing network issues, and monitoring for any unusual activity that may indicate a security threat.

By capturing this detailed information about network flows, organizations can analyze traffic trends, optimize performance, and enhance their security posture. This capability sets NetFlow apart from other technologies, as it focuses specifically on the flow of traffic rather than merely examining packet contents or managing files.